
Helping Your Child Succeed-Choosing the Right Audition Piece
Share
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Introduction
Choosing the right audition piece is a critical step in the preparation process. It sets the tone for the audition and showcases your child's strengths. This post will guide you through the selection process, ensuring your child is well-prepared and confident—with top product recommendations to enhance their performance.
Selecting a Song and Monologue
Choosing a song and monologue that is age-appropriate and showcases your child's strengths is essential. The right piece will not only highlight their vocal abilities but also their acting skills, giving the audition panel a complete picture of their talent.
Age-Appropriate Choices
Selecting pieces that suit your child’s age and experience level ensures a comfortable and authentic performance. Avoid overly mature songs or monologues that may seem inappropriate or beyond their years. Additionally, try to avoid overly popular songs that many others might choose. Unique selections can help your child stand out.
For instance, if your child is auditioning for a role in a children’s musical, selecting a piece from an adult-themed musical may not be the best choice. Instead, choose songs and monologues that reflect the themes and styles of the show they are auditioning for.
Recommended Products:
-
The Kids’ Broadway Songbook – A collection of audition-friendly songs tailored for young performers.
-
Monologues for Kids and Tweens – A great resource for age-appropriate monologues.
Showcasing Strengths
The audition piece should highlight your child's vocal range and acting prowess. For example, if they have a strong high register, choose a song that allows them to showcase this. Similarly, select monologues that allow your child to demonstrate their emotional depth and character interpretation.
If your child excels in comedic timing, a humorous monologue might be the best choice. Conversely, if they have a talent for dramatic expression, a more serious piece could better showcase their abilities. The key is to choose pieces that play to their strengths.
Recommended Product: Vocal Workouts for the Contemporary Singer – A fantastic resource for building vocal strength and confidence.
Researching the Show and Role
Before selecting the audition piece, it's crucial to research the show and the role your child is auditioning for. Understanding the character's background, motivations, and personality will help in choosing pieces that align with these traits.
Understanding Character Requirements
Dive deep into the character's traits and story arc. This will provide insights into what the directors are looking for and help in selecting a song and monologue that best fits the character. For instance, if the character is known for their emotional complexity, a piece that allows your child to explore a range of emotions would be ideal.
Recommended Product: Acting the Song: Performance Skills for Musical Theatre – A guide to connecting acting with singing for auditions.
Analyzing the Show's Musical Style
Each musical has its unique style, and understanding this can greatly influence the choice of the audition piece. If the show has a classical musical style, opt for a song that fits this genre. Conversely, if it's a modern rock musical, choose a song that reflects this.
For example, if your child is auditioning for a role in Les Misérables, a classical piece with a strong emotional core would be appropriate. On the other hand, if they are auditioning for a role in Rent, a more contemporary rock piece would be more fitting.
Recommended Product:
- The Kids’ Broadway Songbook – A collection of audition-friendly songs tailored for young performers.
Conclusion
Choosing the right audition piece is a blend of art and strategy. By selecting age-appropriate, unique pieces that showcase your child’s strengths and align with the show's style, you can help your child make a memorable impression. This initial step sets the foundation for a successful audition, giving your child the confidence to perform their best.
With thoughtful selection and preparation, your child will be well on their way to acing their audition. Break a leg!
Explore More: Check out our top recommended Capezio Character Shoes and Pyle Portable Keyboards for Vocalists to enhance your child’s audition preparation!